In the last episode of The Rings of Power, we saw that the allegiance of Numenor was somewhat changing. The island, which was gifted to men by the Valar, now wanted to wage war against the beliefs of their own ancestors. When Elendil and Miriel returned from the Southlands after witnessing their worst horrors, black flags were seen fluttering as if telling them about the impending doom. So, lets see what Tar-Palantir had prophesied and how the end of Season 1 corroborated it and told us that the downfall of the great kingdom was near.

Spoilers Ahead

Queen Regent Miriel was totally against helping Galadriel in her quest to save the Southlands from the wrath of Sauron. Miriel portrayed that she was astonished by the audacity of the Elf to enter Numenor when it was clear that they were against the Valar for many generations and the elves were not allowed to step onto their lands. But you sense that more than being annoyed, Miriel was scared. Anticipatory anxiety could be sensed by just looking at her face. It was as if she feared the happening of an event, and somewhere it was related to the arrival of the Elf on their lands. Galadriel went to the tower where Miriels father, Tar-Palantir, used to stay. Galadriel knew that Tar-Palantir was loyal to the elves. He supported the faithful secretly (the people who believed in elvish ways), and he also talked about renewing relations between Numenor and the elves. The white tree of Numenor (Nimloth) was sacred to him. He knew that the fate of the descendants of Tar-Minyatur was tied to the holy white tree of Numenor.

The people of Numenor didnt like the bona fide intentions of their king. They had been brainwashed for generations. They believed that the Ban of Valar was unfair. There was a lot of resentment and anger in the kingdom, and the king was accused of honoring the ways and means of Eru Iluvatar. Eventually, Tar-Palantir was forced to step down from the throne. Miriel became the queen after him (according to the series The Rings of Power), and it was then that Tar-Palantir revealed to her a secret. In a Palantir, he showed Miriel the downfall of Numenor. Though not everything shown by a Palantir always turns true, Tar-Palantir believed that if they didnt restore the old ways, they wouldnt be able to stop the vision from becoming a reality. He had foreseen that one day, the darkness of the night would overshadow the light of the sun. He feared that one day the red banners of Numenor would be replaced by black flags supporting the cause of evil. He had seen that one day, the light of Earendil would be enveloped in darkness. He had seen that the Nimloth would be destroyed, and with it, Numenor, too, would meet its fateful end.

Miriel was too scared to accept the reality. She still harbored a feeling of contempt for the elves. She believed that the path of her father had almost destroyed them. Because the Palantir had shown that the doom of Numenor would begin with the arrival of an Elf on their lands, Queen Regent was even more desperate to send Galadriel away, as she thought that by doing so, she could change what was destined to be. She didnt know that Galadriel had come up with a solution and that the downfall of Numenor would only be brought by men, their short-sightedness, and their greed.

According to the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, Pharazon defeated the Dark Lord and then brought him to Numenor as a prisoner. But Sauron was a manipulative and shrewd contemplator. Miraculously, the prisoner rose to the position of an advisor and misled the king into believing that his race had been tricked by the Valar and that they should have shared the boon of immortality with the men too. But the narrative of The Rings of Power is a bit altered and tweaked. Sauron had come to Numenor, disguised as Halbrand, together with Galadriel. We speculate that Sauron was, in all probability, corrupting the mind of Pharazon (though The Rings of Power doesnt give us any strong scenes or confrontation to establish the same).

Pharazon was quite aware about what he needed to do to have a strong hold on the empire. We credit this awareness to the presence of Sauron in the kingdom, as maybe he had started acting behind the veil without being seen or noticed by Galadriel and others. Pharazon says that statecraft is the art of attending to small matters. He knew that if he wanted to strengthen his hold on the kingdom, he needed the common folks to be on his side. He needed to win their trust, and, most importantly, he needed to have his ears to the ground. Pharazon didnt want to be a victim of an unforeseen rebellion, and that is why he started laying the foundations of evil very carefully. He gained the trust of the Numenoreans by assuring them that as long as he was alive, Numenor would remain a kingdom of men. Pharazon was of the opinion that cleverness only gave short-term gratifications, but it was wisdom that changed the course of things forever. More than being clever he wanted to be wise.

Towards the end of the first season of The Rings of Power, we saw that Pharazon had completely taken over the state of affairs in the absence of Queen Miriel and Elendil. He talked about making a tomb for Tar-Palantir after his death. Tar-Palantir was still alive, but it seemed like Pharazon was in a bit of a hurry. When the fleet of ships returned from the Southlands, Elendil noticed the black flags hoisted all across Numenor. Elendil was a wise man, and he understood what had happened in their absence. The black flags signified the beginning of the downfall of Numenor. Black could symbolize many other things too. It stands for evilness and death. It could be used to convey authority. Maybe Pharazon wanted to tell the others that he was in charge now. He, maybe, didnt appreciate that Miriel went to Southlands and fought alongside an Elf. Maybe he felt that she had blatantly violated years of traditions. He had always seen the elves with a lot of disdain, and now his queen was siding with the enemy of the state, and he didnt like it. Black also represented the darkness that Tar-Palantir had seen in his visions. It signified that an evil power was rising in the lands of Mordor. The smoke from Mount Doom had covered the sky, and darkness had spread throughout the Southlands. In the War of the Wrath, the men of Southlands had sided with Morgoth. But the ancestors of the Numenoreans had fought alongside the elves and Valar. Black signified betrayal, and it told us that the Numenoreans were headed toward their doom under the leadership of Pharazon.

Maybe in season 2 of The Rings of Power, Elendil and the other faithfuls would try to bring down the black banner and once again resort to old ways. But as it is said that once darkness seeps inside the cracks of ones conscience, once the seed of evilness is sown in the hearts of men, and once people are captivated by greed, it becomes very difficult to save them from their own fate.

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What Does The Black Flags Of Numenor At The End Of 'The Rings of Power' Season 1 Suggest? | DMT - DMT

Windows are a vital feature of any home but theyre also one of the most forgotten. After all, we spend most of the time looking right through them. The fact is, windows have an enormous impact on a home's style and performance. Top-quality units enhance curb appeal and make the interior of your home more attractive, too. Good windows can also drastically improve your home's energy efficiency and ventilation, and theyre much easier to clean and maintain than lower-quality options.

While the benefits of new windows are clear-cut, shopping for new windows is anything but. Its a high-stakes decision too, with the average cost of replacing a single window coming in around $650, according to home services marketplace Angi. For a typical home, the total all-in cost is between $3,000 and $10,000.

Choosing a top window brand is a good place to start the window-buying process. The home renovation experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have been evaluating window brands for decades, so we've compiled the list of market leaders based on key criteria, including availability, selection, price range and service. Though prices can vary significantly even within the same brand, depending on the size and features, we provided the following ballpark pricing guidelines for a standard double-hung window:

$ = $150 to $200$$ = $200 to $400 $$$ = $400 to $600 $$$$$ = $600 and up

Here, in alphabetical order, are the best window brands to consider for your next project.

Courtesy of Andersen Windows

Founded in 1903, Andersen is one of the biggest names in window manufacturing. The company is headquartered in Bayport, Minnesota (the Midwest is a hotbed of window making) with more than 30 manufacturing, distribution and retail locations nationwide. The company is known for quality and innovation it developed the first wood-clad windows in 1966 and the first composite windows in 1999.

EXPLORE ANDERSON WINDOWS

A bank of double-hung windows with 4-over-4 divided lites brings fresh air and natural light to a traditional kitchen.

When it comes to sheer size, Jeld-Wen takes the prize, with more than a billion dollars in annual revenue. The Charlotte, North Carolina-based company was founded in 1960 and now boasts 117 manufacturing facilities across 19 countries. Its more mass-market than other window brands on this list, with vast lines of inexpensive replacement windows, though it also makes custom units.

EXPLORE JELD-WEN WINDOWS

Marvin is another window brand with a rich pedigree, having opened its doors in 1912, originally as a family-run lumber company. Headquartered in Warroad, Minnesota, it started making windows in the 1950s and has since opened another 10 facilities nationwide. Marvin is a major innovator in the window space; for example, it has integrated connected smart technology into its windows and skylights. It's also a leader in the big window and door movement, including bi-fold and sliding varieties.

EXPLORE MARVIN WINDOWS

Milgard Windows and Doors

Milgard started as a small glass company in Tacoma, Washington in 1958. In the ensuing decades, it has evolved into a custom window company specializing in aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass windows. Though its been bought up by large multi-nationals by Masco Corporation in 2001 and MI Windows and Doors in 2019 Milgard still takes a hands-on approach to window manufacturing, producing all its own components, from frames to insulated glass.

EXPLORE MILGARD WINDOWS

Pella

Courtesy of Pella

Pella is one of the most recognized national window brands, alongside the likes of Andersen and Jeld-Wen. The family-owned company launched in 1925 in the town of Pella, Iowa and it still preaches traditional American values, even as its annual revenues have tipped the billion-dollar mark. Pella was founded on a newfangled invention (a rollup window screen) and that spirit of ingenuity still defines the culture, with a steady flow of innovations over the years that add convenience and ease-of-use, including between-the-glass blinds and shades, retractable screens and removable wooden grills.

EXPLORE PELLA WINDOWS

Billing itself as the #1 manufacturer of windows, vinyl siding and metal accessories, Ply Gem is geared toward professional builders and developers, often on new-build projects. But it does cater to homeowners too; for example, with a full line of replacement windows.

EXPLORE PLY GEM WINDOWS

Based in Medford, Wisconsin, Weather Shield is a family-owned and operated company thats been making high-quality, all-wood and wood-clad windows since the 1950s.

EXPLORE WEATHER SHIELD WINDOWS

Window World

Founded in 1995, North Carolina-based Window World is a relative newcomer to the window category, but it has grown fast through its first quarter century and now sells about a million units a year. Billing itself as Americas largest exterior remodeler, the company is a full-service provider of all exterior components, including doors, shutters, roofing and more.

EXPLORE WINDOW WORLD WINDOWS

To put together this list of top window brands, we narrowed our focus to manufacturers with strong reputations for quality and reliability, based on decades of home renovation product testing and reviews by our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute. We also considered how easy the windows are to find; though some brands on our list have a regional focus, most can be ordered and shipped to anywhere in the country. Selection and price were other criteria; brands with a wide range of styles, materials and price points serve the widest swath of consumers.

Natural light streams into a basement living area through a trio of hopper windows.

Between style, configuration, material and features, there are literally millions of windows to choose from. Heres how to find the perfect fit for your next project.

Replacement vs. new construction: Also known as pocket replacements or retrofit windows, replacement windows are designed to sit in an existing frame, while new construction windows include the frame, sill, jambs and nailing flange, which attaches the window to the surrounding structure. If your existing frames are in good shape, youll save significantly by choosing replacement windows. Obviously if the project is a new home or addition, youll need to go with new construction windows.

Stock vs. custom: This decision also has a big impact on price and complexity of the project. Most window openings are in standard dimensions, for example 2x3 feet or 2x4 feet. Stock windows are made to fit these openings are the least expensive. Custom windows are special ordered to fit different size openings; beside costing more, they have longer lead times, maybe twenty weeks instead of the 10-12 weeks needed for stock units.

Styles: Windows come in a wide array of styles and configurations. Here are the most common options.

Double-Hung Window

Casement Window

Sliding Window

Awning Window

Material: These are the pros and cons of three main window materials:

Wood Window

Vinyl Window

Composite Window

Special Features: Once you settle on the window type and material, consider these additional features:

Before becoming a home renovation expert, Dan DiClerico worked for a remodeling company that specialized in windows, roofs and other exterior projects. He has since written dozens of articles on windows, including buying guides, how-tos on the replacement process and tips for making your existing units more energy efficient. Dan is a regular at housing trade shows, where he keeps up with the latest innovations, from impact-resistant glass to integrated screen systems. As the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, Dan oversees testing of windows, along with other exterior products, like roofing, siding and doors.

Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.

This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

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8 Best Window Brands of 2022 - Good Housekeeping

On Monday, Oct. 17, the City of Florences Housing Implementation Plan (HIP) online survey will close, leaving just days for the community to offer their input on the direction of housing in Florence.

One particular part of the survey, Zoning Updates Comments or Questions, has left some survey participants scratching their heads, faced with an essay-style question concerning 60 pages of highlighted city code.

While easy to skip over, this part of the survey could be considered the most critical, as it goes over specific details on what changes are to be made, particularly to Florences housing code.

But one section, clear and objective, takes up the majority of pages in the survey, yet is the most opaque and challenging of all the subjects. The topic, which deals with the interplay of natural resources and building construction, leads to a host of questions on what the future of Florence could look like and how code can help define that future.

How do homes interact with places like wetlands and wildlife habitats? What kinds of developments will be built in these areas, if they should be at all, and what rules will they have to follow?

What kinds of things could you do? City of Florence Planning Director Wendy FarleyCampbell asked. If you're bringing all these houses into this area, could you not maybe do just avoidance, but mitigation?

From how far back houses are placed to critical areas like wetlands, to the interplay between much needed housing and the unique environment of Florence, the survey is a chance for the public to not only think about these interplays, but allows the space to offer specific suggestions.

To help guide people through the most dense part of the HIP survey, FarleyCampbell went into depth on some of the suggested changes to code, and what people could be looking at when filling out the survey.

Clear and Objective

Throughout the year, the city has been working on updating city code through HIP, and they partnered with research firm MIG/APG and Johnson Economics to do an audit of city codes that were updated in 2019, along with present possible changes.

In July, MIG/APG presented a draft of possible code changes to consider, with a host of suggestions from affordable housing regulations, transitional housing, and short term rentals.

But some of the biggest changes MIG/APG suggested comes from an audit they performed, where they found that certain portions of the 2019 code did not meet clear and objective standards for ORS 197.307(4).

Clear means that a code specifically states what a developer should do on a project, and objective tells them exactly what they should do to meet the code.

If a code is not objective, it could lead to gaps of understanding between the city and developers.

For example, the 2019 code states clearance of vegetation on the remainder of the lot area, including that portion in the setback area otherwise permitted for vegetation clearance, is minimized.

The rule is clear developers need to minimize clearing vegetation beyond the building structure itself. But the word minimized is not objective.

Nobody knows what minimum necessarily is; that's up to the developer, FarleyCampbell said. You can get one of those developers saying, We got to take all this out, I gotta get my 20-foot wide CAT in here, I need all this room. Well, not really. You could take the smaller CAT and get it in there, grab 10 feet from the building foundation and get the space that you need. Right? It's not clear.

Its also possible that a city employee could look at the 20 foot CAT idea and believe its not cleared enough, and even more vegetation has to be removed. Or they could simply turn a blind eye and leave it up to the developer to figure out.

On the same token, the city could tell the developer that CATs werent allowed at all, developers have to use hand tools, and minimum means removing a single plant and nothing else.

That's what were trying to avoid planners being too strong, or not strong enough, FarleyCampbell said.

So instead, the draft code puts in a clear set of rules. Minimized is erased and replaced with ... limited to the development footprint. Any vegetation removal must be placed on-site with native plant species. The planting replacement area must be at least 1.5 times area of the removed area of vegetation.

The process would be simplified, easy for both the developer and the city to understand and follow, saving both time and resources for both parties, and avoiding possible litigation down the road.

Current standards

In the 2019 code, there are multiple instances of clear and objective updates on a wide variety of topics, from maintaining bank stability and avoiding sedimentation of coastal waters including lakes, to quality of surface and subsurface waters, according to MIG/APG.

But clear and objective changes only affect certain overlay districts, which are areas of the citys buildable land that are subject to special conditions. Some of the overlays had minimal suggested changes, while other, more sensitive areas, did have large changes that were rarely, if ever, used. For example, Tsunami Zones.

But some, such as the Prime Wildlife Overlay District, which had a total of 17 changes, do get used.

This is not to say that the city has been leaving things up in the air. In fact, all the changes to the code are what the city is currently interpreting.

Before they drafted all of these, I said, 'Let me tell you what we're doing before you start figuring out what to change.' So I have looked, and what they're proposing is largely how we're implementing it.

If a project is on a slope, They need to meet the building codes for the slope, FarleyCampbell said. We're not just going to let them get Jimmy Bob Local Contractor out there with his backhoe and start. He needs to get an engineer to help him.

In fact, theres portions of the MIG/APGs suggested changes where FarleyCampbell didnt think it was objective enough.

In one instance, 2019 code stated that developers should Avoid disturbance of the remainder of the vegetation cover beyond a point where the disturbance would be a detriment to the wildlife community which utilizes this area.

Determining what the wildlife community is could be interpreted in a wide variety of ways, so MIG/APG attempted to limit the space, changing it to, Avoid disturbance of the remainder of the vegetation cover beyond the development footprint.

That to me is still not clear, because whats development? FarleyCampbell asked.

And thats one of the goals of the project, and what the city hopes people will think about with the survey: How strict, or unstrict, should these codes be?

As for now, when asked if the city has been having issues with the developers, or vice versa, The short answer is no, FarleyCampbell said.

She only listed a handful of small properties that have been developed in the overlays with the most changes. Many were infill lots, vacant one-offs that are not part of a new development. Around eight were in the development Shelter Cove.

The recession hit and a lot (of properties) sat there. Well, recession lifted, and all those lots started jockeying to get them gone or to build on them, FarleyCampbell said. And just about everybody pretty much sold them.

There were other properties on Rhododendron Drive that were approved, but no major developments have occurred inside an overlay with significant changes.

But there are still issues.

Other codes

Recently, questions arose about a development where the bank on the property was sloughing.

Well, there is nothing in code that we talk of that has anything to do with sloughing, FarleyCampbell said. Theres no code that says how to deal with it.

Other times, developers dont even apply for code they just start working.

Theres a lot of vegetation clearing that's happening that have been resolved after the fact. They clear it and they come in and get permits later, FarleyCampbell said.

At times, the city has had to go back.

You need to replant it. Its not homeless abatement, FarleyCampbell said.

For developments that are completed, Florence City Code currently does not have a way to check on housing afterwards.

We don't go back and see if they've added bedrooms. Look at all the houses that have been approved, and there's tons whose garages have been turned into bonus rooms, FarleyCampbell said. Well, it was supposed to be in the code for the cars. That's what it says in code. Do we run around and tell people to go get a storage unit?

Its a slippery slope. Do city inspectors inspect every piece of housing?

But there is missing code that can have an adverse effect on Florence residents.

While HIP is currently not looking at the matter, MIG/APG pointed out that City currently lacks code to define unsafe or unhealthy housing.

Campbell said the city does plan to look at these sections, and there were quite a few code sections that need updating.

For instance, we do not have a health officer and the countys health department does not regulate anything that does not need a permit, FarleyCampbell said. So most derelict housing that does not have a true structural, electrical and fire protection defect is tough to legally regulate as written. We are talking tarps, mold, broken windows, siding falling off.

The future

The process to change those codes could have large effects on the existing housing, but for the code changes HIP is currently looking at through clear and objective, Campbell states only two developments could be impacted by the changes: Three Mile Prairie as it moves into later phases, and a planned but not submitted proposal for a subdivision north of town with property owned by the Benedicks.

We all know Benedick is planning to do something they annexed, they are in the wildlife zone, WendyFarleyCampbell said.

But if Florence continues to expand northward to build more houses in these zones, the changes to code could become more relevant.

As we expand, these will apply, FarleyCampbell said.

MIG/APG did offer an option that went beyond regulating how to build.

The city may elect to prohibit all residential uses from these areas, thereby meeting the clear and objective standards by simply not allowing housing in these areas, it reported.

Farley Campbell did not give an opinion on the questions, stating, Its whatever the public wants, if thats the angle we want to take.

But she did state that codes are being looked at in a way that does provide protections.

Im going to take wildlife as an example, because it has to do with Benedick, she said. So a prime wildlife chapter has a setback in it, to where you measure the wetland is, and theres going to be a person thats going to do that. Theyre going to say, Okay, heres the edge of the wetland. And you have a setback thats established on that, whereby you cant do anything nothing, not a tree being removed, not a bush, and its pretty generous. And so how much more clear and objective do you need to be?

But ultimately, FarleyCampbell said it was for the community to decide what codes should be. And its a positive process she hopes could get people thinking about the future environment they live in.

There could be all kinds of things, she said. Weve got all these agency partners Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Forestry. And theyve got planners and scientists with degrees in ecology. Theyre the stakeholders here, and could weigh in and provide some recommendations for some of these code changes, or certainly review them to see if theres a way to strengthen some of those.

It could lead to more walking areas and parks that could find a melding of nature and buildings.

Theres not anything in code that says how you keep people from getting out there and tromping around in the wetlands, FarleyCampbell said. Theres nothing against that, but theres probably a way of knowing how people are going to do that. Could you design something that creates areas for people to know where theyre allowed, and subsequently, not allowed? I dont know.

Its for the community to figure out.

The HIP survey can be located at https://bit.ly/HIPHousingSurvey, and closes on Monday, Oct. 17.

More:
Housing survey asks questions on 'clear and objective' phrasing - Siuslaw News

There are a lot of reasons why you might need to hire siding contractors. Maybe your old siding is damaged and needs to be replaced, or maybe youre looking to upgrade your homes appearance with new siding. No matter what the reason, its important to find the right contractor for the job. In this blog post, we will discuss the main reasons why people hire siding contractors and provide some tips on how to find the best one for your needs!

Placing siding on your home brings many different benefits that you might not have known about. Siding is an excellent way to protect your home from the elements. It acts as a barrier between your home and the outside world, keeping out wind, rain, snow, and ice. This can help to reduce wear and tear on your home, as well as energy bills by making your home more energy-efficient. Furthermore, a professional Seattle-based siding contractor says that siding can also increase the value of your home! Because there are many benefits to having siding on your home, its important to make sure that it is installed correctly by a professional.

While you might be tempted to install siding on your own, its important to remember that this is a big job. Its not something that should be attempted by someone who doesnt have experience with this type of work. Siding contractors have the knowledge and experience necessary to get the job done quickly and efficiently. They will also have the proper tools and equipment to get the job done right.

There are many different options available on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for your needs. A professional will be able to assess your home and make recommendations on which type of siding would be best suited for it. They will also be able to provide you with information on the different brands and styles available so that you can make an informed decision.

If you live in an area with a harsh climate, its important to make sure that your siding can withstand the elements. Siding contractors are much more familiar with the local climate and weather patterns and can recommend products that will be able to stand up to the elements. When placing sidings, the climate is a big factor that is considered.

If you have any problems with your siding, its important to have someone who can respond quickly and efficiently. Siding contractors will be able to come to your home and assess the problem so that they can make the necessary repairs. This is much faster than if you were to attempt to fix the problem yourself. If an emergency occurs, youll be glad you have someone who can respond quickly!

Attempting to install siding on your own can be a very costly mistake. If you make a mistake, it could end up costing you much more in the long run to fix it. Its important to have the job done right the first time so that you dont have to worry about expensive repairs down the road. Logically, it makes more sense to hire a professional from the start, as it can prevent costs from adding up in the future.

Aside from the benefits that siding brings to your home, it can also increase the value of your property. If youre thinking about selling your home in the future, new siding is an excellent way to increase its value. When its time to sell, first impressions are key. Potential buyers will drive by your home before they ever step foot inside, so its important to make sure that it looks its best. New siding can give your home the curb appeal that it needs to attract buyers and get top dollar.

A final benefit of hiring siding contractors is that they can provide you with a warranty on their workmanship. This will give you peace of mind knowing that if there are any problems with the installation, youll be covered.

When it comes to choosing siding contractors, its important to do your research and choose a reputable company. Before you make your selection, read reviews and check references to ensure that the business is reputable. Hiring a professional is an investment in your home, so you want to make sure that youre getting the best possible service. Take the time to find a siding contractor that you can trust and who will do a great job on your home. It will be worth it in the end!

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The Main Reasons Why You Might Need Siding Contractors - Design Swan

Call For BidsTown of Fall Lake

The Town of Fall Lake is calling for bids for the revitalization of the town hall building located at 393 Kawishiwi Trail, Ely, Minnesota.

Project Scope1) Frame, insulate, and cover abandoned doorway.2) Finish entry door on north end of building, paint, and maintenance free trim3) Replace overhead door moulding and door jamb trim (3 various sized doors). Final moulding finish to be maintenance free.4) Refurbish soffit and fascia with maintenance free cover around entire building. Ex. Metal fascia and metal soffit panels.5) Replace steel siding on the outside of the east wall. Siding to be matching color brown, standard rib style steel panels.6) Update flagpole light.

All colors not specified are to be determined by availability.

Bid will be descriptive and clearly itemized.

Bids shall include project start and completion dates.

Coordination of any utility work (ex. Electrical, gas or etc.) will be the responsibility of the bid winner and shall be clearly stated in the winning bid.

All bids to be sealed, mailed to Fall Lake Township, P.O. Box 599, Ely, MN 55731, and received by September 1, 2022, for opening and awarding at the Fall Lake Township monthly board meeting on September 6, 2022.

To schedule a walkthrough of this project call Rod at 218-365-3080.

The Town of Fall Lake reserves the right to reject any part of/all bids.

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Call For Bids Town of Fall Lake - The Ely Echo

Are you tired of having a dingy driveway? Maybe pollen is covering your homes siding or car. Well, regardless of the dirt and grime that needs to be cleaned up, Sun Joes 2,030 PSI electric pressure washer is up to the task. On sale today for $129, youre saving $30 and enjoying a 19% discount as well as enjoying the lowest price that weve seen so far this year. We also have a wide selection of Tesla, Greenworks, and other e-bike discounts in todays New Green Deals, so you wont want to miss that either.

Head below for other New Green Deals that weve found today and of courseElectreks best EV buyingandleasing deals. Also, check out the newElectrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Amazon is offering the Sun Joe SPX3000-BLK 2,030 PSI Electric Pressure Washer for $129 shipped. For comparison, it normally goes for $159 at Amazon and todays deal marks a 2022 low that weve tracked. With a 14.5A 1800W motor, this electric pressure washer can generate up to 2,030 PSI at 1.76GPM to deliver maximum cleaning power. The total stop system will shut the pump off when the trigger isnt engaged as well, which will save energy and prolong the motors lifespan. Sun Joes system ships with five quick-connect tips and there are even dual 0.9LL removable detergent tanks so you can use each one independently or together. So, if youre looking for a way to give the driveway, house, or somewhere else a cleaning as we head toward fall next month, Sun Joes electric pressure washer is the perfect tool for the task.

Amazon now offers thePanasonic eneloop pro Rechargeable Battery Power Pack at$50.64 shipped. Normally fetching $65, todays offer amounts to 22% in savings, is the lowest weve seen this year, and beats our previous mention from back in January by $1. Delivering a series of rechargeable batteries,this bundleis a great way to help cut down on single-use consumables for everything from TV remotes to toys and other gadgets. Alongside the charger itself, youre looking at eight AA and two AAA batteries, each of which can be recharged thousands of times and hold 2,550 or 950mAh charges, respectively. A storage case completes the package to ensure everything stays in one place.

Amazon is now offering theecobee SmartThermostat with HomeKit for$195.95 shipped. Normally fetching $249, this is marking the first discount since Prime Day and delivers the second-best price of the year at $53 off. ecobee SmartThermostat automates your heating or cooling setup to ensure youre comfortable throughout the last few weeks of summer and even into the cooler months later this fall. Replacing your existing unit, theSmartThermostatfeatures a touchscreen display to control or monitor settings, and also arrives with HomeKit support out of the box as well as onboard access to Siri and Alexa. A bundled temperature sensor also lets you adjust settings based on hyperlocal readings. Dive intoour hands-on reviewfor a closer look.

A more affordable way to get in on the smart thermostat game falls to theecobee3 lite. This alternative clocks in witha$148.94price tagand delivers similar HomeKit support. This one is now only down from the usual $179 price tag, but also $2 less than our previous Prime Day mention to mark the best discount of the year. As far as features go, youll miss out on the bundled sensor as well as onboard access to Siri and Alexa. Even so, its a pretty notable way to upgrade to a smart climate control system for cooling off through the rest of summer. Especially at $30 off.

After checking out the electric pressure washer above, if you keep read, youll find a selection of new green deals that will make your Tesla experience better in multiple areas. From storage to keep recordings on to phone mounts, car chargers, and anything else we can find, itll be listed below. Each day well do our best to find new and exciting deals and ways for you to save on fun accessories for your Tesla, making each trip unique. For more gift ideas and deals, check outthe best Tesla shop. Keep reading on for e-bike, Greenworks, and other great deals.

If youre looking to get out and enjoy the sunshine still after using your new electric mower, than we recommend you experience it than on another e-bike or electric scooter you just got at a fantastic price through one of our deals and sale below. You can use it for fun, exercise, or even transportation to and from work or the coffee shop. We have several people here that will regularly commute to coffee shops or offices on their e-bike, as it cuts down on fossil fuel usage as well as allows them to enjoy some time outdoors on nice sunny days. Below, youll find a wide selection of new e-bike deals and electric scooter deal in all price ranges, so give it a look if thats something youd be interested in picking up. As always, the newest e-bike deal and electric scooter discounts and sales will be at the top, so shop quick as the discounts are bound to go away soon.

After shopping the electric pressure washer above, be sure to check out the other discounts we found today. These new green deals are wide-ranging from outdoor lawn equipment to anything else we find that could save you money in various ways, be that cutting gas and oil out of your life or just enjoying other amenities that energy-saving gear can bring. As always, the newest deals will be at the top, so shop quick as the discounts are bound to go away soon.

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Sun Joes electric pressure washer blasts dirt and grime away for $129 in New Green Deals - Electrek.co

Rendering of the Project Available Here

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $75 million project to upgrade and preserve two outdated Ithaca Housing Authority properties with a total of 36 apartments and to replace another obsolete Authority property with 82 new affordable apartments. The 118-unit Ithaca Housing Authority Redevelopment is designed to be all-electric and was awarded funding through the Clean Energy Initiative program for multifamily buildings. A renderingof the projectcan be accessed here.

"My administration is steadfast in our commitment to preserving and creating affordable housing that is sustainable, high-quality, and comfortable," Governor Hochul said. "Today's $75 million investmentwill help strengthen communities and provide new opportunities for Ithaca residents.We will continue to upgrade and modernize New York's supply of public housing in the Southern Tier to provide a more stable and equitable future for the next generation."

The Ithaca Housing Authority Redevelopment complements Governor Hochul's sweeping plans to make housing more affordable, equitable, and stable. In the 2022-23 State Budget, the Governor introduced and successfully secured a new $25 billion, five-year, comprehensive housing plan that will increase housing supply by creating or preserving 100,000 affordable homes across New York including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes.

As part of this redevelopment project, two of the buildings, Overlook Terrace and Southview Garden, will be substantially renovated. Overlook Terrace has five residential buildings with ten apartments. Southview Gardens has four residential buildings with 36 apartments, a community building, and a building for laundry and mechanical equipment.

The rehabilitation work will include individual apartment renovations such as the replacement and upgrade of doors, flooring, bathrooms, kitchens, and appliances. Major capital improvements will include mechanical and electrical upgrades; the replacement of water heaters and furnaces to an all-electric option; upgraded laundry facilities; and the replacement of entry doors, vinyl and aluminum siding, soffits and trim, windows, and roofs. The buildings have asbestos containing material that will be remediated and/or encapsulated for a healthier living environment. Site work will include the replacement of existing concrete walks, fencing, and landscaping.

Northside Apartments, with 70 apartments currently, is considered obsolete and will be demolished to make way for a new affordable development that will have 17 residential buildings with a total of 82 apartments - 12 more than the original thanks to a reconfiguration that adds much-needed one-bedroom apartments. The new development will include a one-story community building with a kitchen, office spaces, and a laundry room.

All three properties will be highly energy-efficient and have an all-electric building design pursuant to the New York's nation-leading Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act to curb building emissions. Additional energy efficiency measures will include heat-reflective roofing systems with tapered insulation, ENERGY STAR rated appliances, energy-efficient lighting and low-flow plumbing fixtures for a projected 15 percent in total energy savings.

In total, there will be 20 one-bedroom units, 34 two-bedroom units, 40 three-bedroom units, 22 four-bedroom units, and two five-bedroom units. All of the apartments will be for households earning at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income.

Tenants at Southview Gardens and Overlook Terrace will be temporarily relocated and have the right to return to their original apartments.

All 118 apartments will be covered by new Project-Based Section 8 Housing Assistance Payment contracts issued under HUD guidelines for Public Housing Authorities.

The developer is a joint venture between 3d Development Group and Cayuga Housing Development Corporation, the nonprofit affiliate of the Ithaca Housing Authority.

State funding for the $75 million Ithaca Housing Authority Redevelopment includes $10.6 million in permanent tax-exempt bonds, Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits that will generate $29.7 million in equity, and $18.8 million in subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal. The development was awarded $1.4 million from the Clean Energy Initiative. Other funding sources include $9.3 million from the Ithaca Housing Authority, $300,000 from Tompkins County Community Housing Fund, and nearly $91,000 from Ithaca Urban Renewal.

The Clean Energy Initiative developed by New York State Homes and Community Renewal and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority to create more than 1,500 energy-efficient, all-electric or electric-ready, climate-friendly affordable homes in existing multifamily buildings across the state.

Homes and Community RenewalCommissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said,"This $75 million investment in the Ithaca Housing Authority speaks to our commitment to upgrading and protecting our existing affordable housing assets. The redesign of these apartments will yield modern and highly energy-efficient homes for 118 households and will preserve affordability and extend the useful life of these buildings for decades to come. Governor Hochul's bold and forward-looking housing agenda is ensuring a brighter and more secure future for public housing residents in Ithaca and across the entire state."

New York State Energy Research and Development AuthorityPresident and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, "NYSERDA is pleased to see construction commence on the Ithaca Housing Authority redevelopment project, which demonstrates that clean, resilient and affordable housing can be accessible to all New Yorkers. Through the Clean Energy Initiative, we are working with our sister agency, New York State Homes and Community Renewal, to make strategic investments in multifamily buildings like those being developed through this project, that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and provide healthier, comfortable and resilient living spaces."

Senator Chuck Schumer said, "Every New Yorker deserves access to safe affordable housing, but historic underinvestment has created a housing crisis in places like Ithaca. I am proud that the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit that I have fought hard to protect and expand has supplied the millions needed to make these new affordable homes a reality. Housing is a human right and I will keep fighting to get every dollar of federal support needed to help lay the foundation in Ithaca for a brighter, 'gorges', and more equitable future for all residents."

State Senator Tom O'Mara said, "State investments in safe and affordable housing continue to strengthen the fabric of neighborhoods and the quality of life for tenants and residents in the city of Ithaca and communities across this region and state. It's an important commitment that will deliver critical short- and long-term benefits."

Assemblymember Anna Kelles said,"I am encouraged to see this project move forward at a moment when rising rents, increased home prices, and lack of supply have exacerbated the housing and affordability crisis. We must continue to create affordable and safe housing for low- and middle-income families. This project addresses this need by rehabilitating 36 units, and fully replacing 70 units that were outdated and potentially unsafe with 82 new, safe, and sustainable units. This 118 unit project will add 12 new units, including one and two bedroom units which are currently in acute deficit in Ithaca and all units will be rented at 80% area median income (AMI). Hopefully this is just one more step in a long needed road of adding to our affordable housing stock. I also applaud the project's sustainability goals with all of the units in this housing project constructed all-electric with air source heat pumps providing heating and cooling, in line with the city of Ithaca and Tompkins County aggressive climate goals."

Acting Ithaca Mayor Laura Lewis said,"The city of Ithaca is pleased to have the support of so many partner agencies in the redevelopment of critically needed low-income housing. Substantial renovations of Overlook Terrace and Southview Garden and, at Northside Apartments the complete replacement of outdated buildings that were first constructed decades ago, will provide families with high quality and environmentally efficient homes. This investment in our community will benefit generations of Ithacans."

Tompkins County Legislature Chairwoman Shawna M. Black said, "This project is an excellent example of re-invigorating our affordable housing options in Tompkins County. We're proud of whatIthacaHousing Authority offers to our community and that these projects will be energy efficient and align with New York State's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Thank you to New York State,IthacaHousing Authority, and our Tompkins County Community Housing Fund forcontributing to these developments. I can't wait to see construction begin and to get people back into their homes."

3d Development GroupPresident Bruce Levinesaid, "Our focus was on the needs of the existing tenants, future tenants, the community at large, and the global need for improved energy sustainability and reducing fossil fuel emissions. This project was made possible by the support received from the state, federal and local government agencies. Because everyone got on board and believed in the goals and initiative, the final result will transform the Ithaca Northside neighborhood for decades to come."

Ithaca Housing Authority Executive Director Brenda Westfallsaid, "Our vision and end goal is to provide quality affordable housing for our current and future tenants while ensuring that the properties are energy efficient and meet energy sustainability goals for decades to come. As a lifelong resident of the city of Ithaca, it is extremely rewarding to witness the commitment and support that many different agencies brought forth in bringing our vision to life. This project will both improve and preserve the quantity and quality of affordable housing we are able to provide while complimenting the landscape of the neighborhoods in which the properties are located."

Accelerating Southern Tier Soaring

Today's announcement complements "Southern Tier Soaring," the region's comprehensive blueprint to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on attracting a talented workforce, growing business and driving innovation. Now, the region is accelerating Southern Tier Soaring with a $500 million State investment through the Upstate Revitalization Initiative. The State's $500 million investment will incentivize private business to invest well over $2.5 billion - and the region's plan, as submitted, projects up to 10,200 new jobs. More information is available here.

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Governor Hochul Announces Start of Construction on $75 Million Rehabilitation of Public Housing in Ithaca - Homes and Community Renewal

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Manitoba has awarded over $625,000 in funding to help preserve and enhance heritage across the province, it was announced Monday.

A total of$627,070 in Heritage Resources Conservation Grant funding will support 51 projects, Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Andrew Smith announced.

Our government is committed to preserving Manitobas rich historical legacy for future generations, said Smith in a press release. This investment supports the conservation of heritage buildings, which are powerful, tangible connections to our provinces past with significant educational and cultural value that must be maintained.

Among the projects to get a boost were the Seven Oaks House Museum ($5,905 for log wall, foundation and window repairs), Sir Hugh John MacDonald House (Dalnavert Museum) ($9,150 for window restoration) and the Walker Theatre ($25,000 for roofing replacement) in Winnipeg.

The Heritage Resources Conservation Grant provides funding to support projects that demonstrate a commitment to the conservation and long-term sustainability of legally protected heritage sites, the province said.

Owners or long-term lessees of heritage sites as well as municipal governments, professional associations or non-profit organizations that manage heritage sites can apply for funding for eligible projects related to research, conservation planning, capital projects, endowments and long-term maintenance or education and training.

Applications are assessed based on a number of factors including theimportance of the project to the overall heritage conservation goals and the community benefit of the project.

The minister noted all applications received were approved for funding.

Heritage Resources Conservation Grant project funding list

Albert St. Autonomous Zone Marketing Co-op Ltd., Winnipeg $9,670 for masonry repairs and cornice restoration; $5,000 for conservation planning. Agricultural Society Display Building, Carberry $20,465 for foundation installation and floor joist replacement. Augustine United Church, Winnipeg $25,000 for window restoration and upgrading. Barber House, Winnipeg $19,580 for floor and millwork restoration; $445 for conservation planning. Bergthaler Waisenamt, Altona $9,455 for roofing replacement. Bradburn Block, Winnipeg $25,000 for roofing replacement; $5,000 for conservation planning. Brookdale Grain Warehouse (Manitoba Agricultural Museum), Austin $21,645 for new metal cladding. CNR Station (Flin Flon Museum), Flin Flon $6,000 for exterior painting and window repairs; $2,500 for conservation planning. Dominion Post Office (Boyne Regional Library), Carman $17,340 for masonry work. Erickson Cabin, Lac du Bonnet $1,375 for log repairs and exterior painting. Former Canadian Northern Railway Station, McCreary $18,935 for exterior upgrades and site drainage improvements. Former St. Johns Anglican Church, Lac du Bonnet $12,150 for foundation repairs; $3,225 for conservation planning. Former Town Hall (Watson Arts Centre), Dauphin $25,000 for window repairs and upgrades. Frelsis (Liberty) Lutheran Church, Baldur $6,865 for fire exit window replacement and accessibility upgrades. Grain Elevator (Manitoba Agricultural Museum), Austin $2,780 for metal cladding repairs. Gregg Building, Winnipeg $25,000 for window repairs and upgrades. Holland Emmanuel Historical Church, Holland $8,925 for window repairs and restoration. Kingsley School, La Riviere $21,085 for masonry repairs, window restoration and painting. Knox United Church, Winnipeg $25,000 for foundation stabilization and roof repairs; $5,000 for conservation planning. La Rivire Manitou Station, Manitou $25,000 for new foundation, structural repairs and new station platform; $5,000 for conservation planning. Little Britain United Church, Lockport $13,250 for roof edge repairs. Midwinter School, East Braintree $2,110 for wood window installation. Oke House, Morden $19,120 for roof, siding and structural floor repairs. Old English Church, Hartney $4,385 for masonry repairs. Prairie Skills Centre (former Presbyterian Church), Deloraine $16,600 for wall, window and floor repairs and painting. Ralph Connor House, Winnipeg $8,350 for foundation repairs and drainage upgrades. Seven Oaks House Museum, Winnipeg $5,905 for log wall, foundation and window repairs. Sir Hugh John MacDonald House (Dalnavert Museum), Winnipeg $9,150 for window restoration. South Bay School, Winnipegosis $3,530 for exterior painting. St. Annes Anglican Church, Poplar Point $6,830 for window and siding repairs and exterior painting. St. Helens Anglican Church, Fairford $12,000 for window repairs and exterior painting. St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, Manitou $22,500 for tower structural repairs and masonry repointing. St. Judes Anglican Church, Grand Marais $20,500 for replication of original porch, accessibility upgrades and exterior painting; $1,270 for conservation planning. St. Lukes Anglican Church, Winnipeg $17,000 for window restoration. St. Michaels Ukrainian Catholic Church, Gimli $5,400 for exterior painting of church and bell tower. Ste. Thrse Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal $8,765 for window, siding and entrance repairs and exterior painting. Stonewall Limestone Quarry, Stonewall $25,000 for masonry repairs and stabilization; $5,000 for conservation planning. Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Tyndall $9,000 for woodwork repairs and exterior painting. Trappist Monastery Guest House, St. Norbert $20,250 for window and floor repairs. Union Bank Building (Heritage Arts Centre), Hamiota $3,715 for window restoration and masonry repairs. Walker Theatre, Winnipeg $25,000 for roofing replacement. Yerex House, Franklin $10,000 for roof and wall repairs and painting.

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Province awards over $625K in heritage conservation grants - Winnipeg Sun

By: Jo Ingles | Statehouse News BureauPosted on: Monday, August 8, 2022

COLUMBUS, Ohio (Statehouse News Bureau) The races for three seats on the Ohio Supreme Court this November are gaining national attention for the stakes involved with future decisions related to abortion, redistricting, and other high-profile issues.

The Ohio Supreme Court building in Columbus. [Daniel Konik | Statehouse News Bureau]Ohio Supreme Court races rarely get as much attention as other statewide races. Vote totals from past elections show some voters who cast ballots dont make choices in supreme court races. Some just skip those races altogether. But Republicans and Democrats are hoping that will change.

Advocates for parties and issues say they will be pumping money and putting a lot of attention on those races. Sabatos Crystal Ball, the national political forecasting newsletter, has included Ohios supreme court races on its short list of those to watch this November.

Among the advocates keeping a close eye on the supreme court races are those involved with the issue of abortion.

Pro-Choice Ohio Executive Director Kellie Copeland said shes stressing the importance of getting Democratic justices elected for the states high court in November.

The fastest and first way that we can re-establish full abortion access in Ohio is through the state supreme court, Copeland said.

Likewise, Ohio Right to Life President Mike Gonidakis said his group will also be emphasizing the importance of Supreme Court races. And he said he expects Republican judicial candidates to have the advantage because it is a statewide election.

9.9 times out of ten, the pro-life candidate wins statewide elections in Ohio, Gonidakis said.

Current Republican Chief Justice Maureen OConnor is retiring due to age limits and a sitting Republican or Democratic justice will be chosen to replace her. Democratic Justice Jennifer Brunner and Republican Justice Sharon Kennedy are vying for OConnors post.

Two other Republican Justices are up for re-election. Republican Justice Pat Fischer is being challenged by Democratic Court of Appeals Judge Terri Jamison. The other Republican up for re-election is Justice Pat DeWine who is running against Democratic District Court of Appeals Judge Marilyn Zayas.

Justice Pat DeWine was criticized for not recusing himself from cases involving the Ohio Redistricting Commission, of which his father Gov. Mike DeWine is a member.

The redistricting saga played out with the majority of the court ruling the states legislative and congressional redistricting maps unconstitutional. OConnor became the key swing vote in those cases by siding with the three Democratic justices in those majority opinions. If two of the three Democrats running for those seats are elected, it could flip the ideological balance of the states high court.

Ohio Supreme Court candidates will have a party designation next to their name on the ballot for the first time this general election due to a new law passed by majority Republican state lawmakers.

The move is thought by political pundits to be an advantage for Republicans since the state has been trending in favor of the GOP in recent elections.

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High-stakes races for the Ohio Supreme Court will determine the balance of the bench - WOUB